Monday night brought a major setback for Golden State, as Jimmy Butler was confirmed to have torn his ACL during the third quarter of their matchup with the Miami Heat, effectively ending his season.
For a team attempting to maximize what remains of Curry’s window, the timing couldn’t be worse. Golden State currently sits eighth in the Western Conference at 25–19, narrowly ahead of the 22–22 Portland Trail Blazers. In a loaded West, that position offers little comfort.
With Butler’s injury casting serious doubt on the Warriors’ playoff and title hopes, former NBA big man and current analyst Kendrick Perkins believes there’s only one bold move left. In his view, Curry needs to pick up the phone and recruit Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“It’s the perfect timing. If I’m Steph, I’m getting my light-skinned ass, green eyes, and I’m picking up the f—ing phone. You know who I’m calling? I’m calling Giannis.”
Kendrick Perkins says it’s time for Steph Curry to pick up the phone and call Giannis the same way they called Kevin Durant
“It’s the perfect timing. If I’m Steph, I’m getting my light skin ass green eyes and I’m picking up the f*cking phone. You know who I’m calling? I’m… pic.twitter.com/hDD4gPmTm8
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) January 20, 2026
